Micheál Martin: “Working closely and cooperatively with the European Parliament is essential to delivering a successful Presidency.”

I do not believe the basis exists for industrial action. I don't believe the public should have to endure that, because there have been significant tax cuts in the Budget, which will help workers.

The rate of growth is declining. But to use words like ‘brutal’ is completely over the top, if you don't mind me saying so, and a gross exaggeration.

I've made my position clear in terms of where I think there can be derogations, and there doesn't need to be a picket.

If that's not a platform for negotiations, I don't know what is.